Interpol issues notice for arrest of fugitive Iraqi deputy

Interpol said on Tuesday it had issued a Red Notice for the arrest of fugitive Iraqi Vice President Tariq al-Hashemi, who is facing terrorism charges in Baghdad.

Al-Hashemi is being tried in absentia in Baghdad for terrorism charges under the country's anti-terrorism law for alleged involvement in the assassination of two security officials and a lawyer. The trial resumes on May 10, DPA reported.

The notice was issued at the request of Iraqi authorities for al-Hashemi, on suspicion of guiding and financing terrorist attacks in the country, the Lyon-based agency said.

"The Red Notice for al-Hashemi represents a regional an international alert to all of Interpol's 190 member countries to seek their help in locating and arresting him," it added.

Al-Hashemi, Iraq's highest-ranking Sunni politician, has previously denied the accusations, saying they were politically motivated.

He has refused to appear at the Baghdad court, questioning the possibility of a fair trial. He has taken refuge in the Kurdish semi-autonomous region of northern Iraq since December.

His trial has triggered a political crisis between his supporters and the Shiite-dominated government of Prime Minister Nuri al-Maliki.